The first week of kindergarten is in the books. We had a lot of fun getting to know one another and discovering new areas in our classroom. Here’s a quick update on some of the fun that happened!
Our week began with magic play dough that promised us an amazing school year. This group of kids, REALLY loved this activity! {That makes me SO happy!}
We began getting to know each other by starting a color tree activity during exploration centers. To do this, I set up a tree, crafting wire, and a bunch of beads and buttons at a table. Each student worked on a color strand that represented their favorite color.
Here is what it looked like after four days of work!
We also completed a few guided discoveries of math materials. This is a time where students get to explore the materials and think of creative ways to use them.
We also enjoyed a few of our exploration centers.
By far the favorite place to play and explore was our hollow block area.
The teamwork, self control, and risk assessment was fantastic.
My students were so very kind during these activities. What I loved the most, was that after our first day using the blocks, I had the students who were building with them share what they were proud of during our closing circle. The boys put their arms around one another and proudly proclaimed, ” We worked together to build our structure! We used teamwork!” It made my teacher heart SO very happy!!
Another favorite area is our market place. The kids are working so nicely “cooking,” “selling,” and playing in this area!
We also completed our first science experiment. My students got to explore mixing colors using eye droppers and test tubes.
On Friday morning, we began literacy rotations. My students LOVED them and even talked about how much fun they were during recess. 
I am looking forward to exploring with this new group of students! Next week we are going to explore some Reggio-inspired bird and nest provocations, read “The Little Red Hen”, and bake bread on Friday! I can’t wait!
If you started school last week, I hope that you had a great start to your year!
~Kristen
We start tomorrow!
Thanks for the inspiration!
I’m a SpEd teacher with five kinders, one second grader and five third graders.
My third grade students are old friends, having been in my room last year, but this influx of kinders led me to Pinterest/your blog and TPT. I have a zillion preps every day, but I love my job. Now I’m off to make magic play dough and colored rice
Loved this post!
Quick question…
How do you manage rotations? Do you assign students activities or is it free choice? Do you mix their literacy centers with play centers? Trying to find a balance for my little smarties and thought I would ask you! Thank you for taking the time to share your ideas! I always love them!
I’m so glad you enjoy my blog posts! In the beginning of the year, I mix the play and literacy centers. I have my students travel in a group from a play center to a work center and back and forth. This gives them a break and helps them build stamina! Pretty soon we will be moving towards free choice literacy centers. I am beginning to train them how to make a center choice, finish it, and then put it back where they got it from.
Mats that the Kinders unroll and place their supplies on?
the cute construction hats?
Love your posts! The new playhouse is darling!
Thank you! I got the Montessori mats here: http://amzn.to/2bs4MFc The construction hats were actually in our supply closet. Sorry!
I am so glad you continue to share your ideas with such joy. Wishing you the best throughout this new year.
I’m so glad you enjoy my blog!
Hi, I love your website. Can you explain the color science test tube activity?
Do you know a good variety pack of beads to buy for the tree activity? Or are they just ones you’ve collected over time? I love the idea, I’m definitely going to do it during our first week!